The Adobe Women’s FA Cup paid a visit to Atlético London ahead of the third round qualifying of the competition which takes place this weekend.
The club, formerly known as London Seaward before a rebrand which coincided with a takeover at the start of this season, are one of London’s highest ranked independent women’s football clubs.
A huge victory over Southend United saw Atlético progress to the third round qualifying, with a cup run in their sights.
“We’ve played one game so far, but we won 12-1 so it was a really good result for us – we didn’t expect to win by that much, but really happy with it and excited for more,” reflected Jordan Feldman, the club’s vice-captain, who found the back of the net against Southend.
“I know a lot of girls have progressed through the rounds in years prior so if we can get there or even further that would be great for the club, to get our name out there.
“And for me personally, it’s just amazing to compete in such a historic competition and be part of that.”
Atlético London will be looking to cause an upset this weekend when they take on Cambridge United.
And according to the forward, preparations are well underway for the clash.
“Very high intensity, trying to keep to momentum going, good vibes and good energy,” added Feldman.
“We did some running on Tuesday to try and get that fitness up as we know what a side like Cambridge are like but we’re also trying to stick to our way of doing things and train as we normally do.”
With a place in the first round proper up for grabs – with the club also vying for promotion back into the FA Women’s National League and up the pyramid – attention turns to Sunday.
“We obviously just take every game as it comes, but we know Cambridge will be a tough opposition,” explained goalkeeper Alex Baker, who was in attendance at last season’s Final at Wembley between Chelsea and Manchester United.
“We know that they’re doing well but we’ve also been doing well in our league, so we have been preparing just like any other game to be honest and if we play how we have been, we’ll give them a good run for their money.”
And while the club are impressing on the pitch, they are also making waves off the field.
Atlético London are committed to ensuring equality of access to football, regardless of background or income.
They also emphasise unique, bespoke kits designed specifically for female athletes, reflecting their bold and ambitious identity as a fully independent female club.
“It’s massive for us,” said Baker. “It’s really important for us to get on the map as a fully independent team, so we encourage anyone to come down and support us in hopefully trying to make history and get to Wembley!
“On a personal level, the FA Cup is such an important tournament to me. I’ve had great runs with clubs over the years, and I know that anything can happen on the day in the FA Cup so it’s exciting.”
